All You Knead is Love
Tanya Guerrero
That’s when I saw it on the corner. El Rincón del Pan. It was teensy bread bakery in a strange-looking building. The structure was only three stories high, but the design was straight out of a Dr. Seuss book, curved and curly and wavy, with hardly any straight edges.
Plot & Premise
When sent away to live with an estranged relative in Barcelona, Alba takes it as a sign that her mother has sided with her father—an abusive man who does not approve of Alba’s independent streak. Expecting more rejection, Alba is surprised to be welcomed by a loving grandmother and the community her mother left behind long ago. She soon finds her place at the local bakery, but Alba’s not the only one ready for a fresh start.
Things to Love
~the flight risk girl
~tourist towns
~stage makeup
~artisan bread
~lucky band t-shirts
Personal Thoughts
All You Knead is Love sweeps you off to Spain in an all-senses experience, complete with a pop-hits soundtrack. Difficult topics such as abuse, familial forgiveness, and staying true to yourself despite rejection are explored as thoroughly as any of the tourist attractions, local hotspots, or secret and homey locations.
Content Warning: This book contains mild language and topics of physical abuse and emotional neglect. I would recommend it for readers nearing their tweens or early teens.
Ideal Readership
This book will appeal to readers who are ready for complex and flawed characters, a taste of romance, and a few new recipes to try out in their own kitchen.
Fans of All You Knead is Love may also enjoy:
- Drama by Raina Telgemeier for its inclusive cast, romantic themes, and individualistic female lead.
- Moxie and the Art of Rule Breaking by Erin Dionne for its taste in music and mother-daughter relationship.
- Kimchi & Calamari by Rose Kent for its mouthwatering cuisine and characters reconnecting with their heritage.
Elza Kinde 